Relationship Counseling for Unmarried Couples in Los Angeles

Relationships take work, no matter how much love two people share. Los Angeles is full of energy, but that busy lifestyle can sometimes make relationships harder to manage. For couples who aren’t married, it can feel even more challenging. Whether you’ve just started dating or have been together for years, relationship counseling is a smart way to understand each other better, handle tough moments, and grow as a couple.

National survey data shows that almost 62% of couples who live together break up within ten years, while only 33% of married couples split up during the same time. This shows that in general for unmarried couples the risk of separation is greater, and a greater effort and intention to nurture the relationship may be needed. Many people believe therapy is only for married couples or those facing serious problems, but that isn’t true. 

Relationship counseling for unmarried couples is a growing and powerful tool for deepening connection, improving communication, and solving issues early, before they become bigger.

This blog will help you understand how couples counseling for unmarried couples and pre-marital counseling can offer real support, what to expect during sessions, and why many in Los Angeles are choosing it to grow closer and build a healthier relationship.

Why Unmarried Couples Might Seek Therapy

There are many reasons why unmarried couples decide to go to therapy. You don’t have to wait for a crisis. Therapy works best when it’s used early, before problems become too hard to manage.

Here are some common reasons people seek couples counseling for unmarried couples:

• Communication issues

  – Do you feel like your partner doesn’t hear you? Or maybe you both argue too often over small things. Therapy helps build clear,  respectful and connected communication.

   

• Trust concerns

  – Past relationship trauma, insecurity, or unclear boundaries can lead to jealousy and doubt. The therapy helps rebuild trust and strengthen emotional safety.

   

• Life transitions

  – Moving in together, career changes, or planning for a future family are big steps. Therapy helps couples manage these transitions as a team.

   

• Different values or goals

  – You may love each other, but want different things in life. A counselor helps both partners make thoughtful, respectful decisions.

   

• Emotional distance

  – If one or both partners feel disconnected, therapy can help restore emotional closeness and support.

Searching for unmarried couples therapy near me isn’t about deciding whether or not to marry—it’s about creating a healthy and fulfilling relationship no matter where you’re headed.


Pro Tip: Couples counseling works best when you start early. Even small problems can grow over time. Getting help now can prevent bigger issues later and strengthen your connection.

Here’s What Happens in Couples Counseling

Starting therapy may feel a little awkward at first, but most couples quickly begin to feel relief, support, and hope. Here’s how it usually works:

1. The First Session

You and your partner meet Dr. Harel to share your concerns, describe current relationship situations and set treatment goals. It’s a chance for him to learn about your relationship and plan the path forward.

2. Weekly Meetings

Most couples attend therapy once a week or every other week. You’ll identify challenges, gain insight into the roots of the problems, develop strategy for creating change and implement new skills and habits for a better future together.

3. Individual Time

Solo sessions are included sometimes, so each partner can speak freely and have an opportunity to address personal baggage that is not related to their partner, but affects the relationship.This adds balance and deeper insight.

4. Homework and Practice

Therapy does not only happen in session. Therapeutic process of growth and change happens in between the sessions as well. Dr. Harel will assign practice assignments such as couples exercises, new skills practice, self-care practice, contemplation of specific topics and more. Therapy is an immersive experience and will require your full engagement and participation throughout the process. 

The Benefits of Relationship Counseling

Couples therapy offers a safe, nonjudgmental space to learn, grow, and understand each other better. Here are some of the biggest benefits:

1. Improved Communication

Dr. Harel teaches you how to express yourself clearly and listen actively. With better communication, you can solve issues without arguing or shutting down.

2. Stronger Emotional Connection

Therapy helps you reconnect and feel close again. It rebuilds the warmth, affection, and help that brought you together in the first place.

3. Better Conflict Resolution

Every couple has disagreements. Therapy teaches you how to handle them calmly, with kindness and fairness, instead of anger or blame.

4. Deeper Understanding

You’ll learn more about your partner’s fears, hopes, and needs. This leads to more empathy, compassion, and teamwork in your relationship.

5. Smarter Decisions

Whether you’re thinking about moving in, buying a house, or starting a family, therapy helps you make decisions together—with clarity and respect.

Finding the Right Therapist in Los Angeles

Living in Los Angeles can be exciting, but also stressful. With busy jobs, traffic, and high living costs, it’s easy for relationships to feel the pressure. That’s why many couples are now turning to relationship counseling for unmarried couples to stay strong and connected.

If you’ve been searching for unmarried couples therapy near me, you’re not alone. More couples—whether dating, engaged, or living together—are choosing therapy to understand each other better and fix problems before they grow.

Finding the right therapist can make a big difference. Look for someone with real experience in couples counseling for unmarried couples. It helps when your therapist understands your values, background, and relationship style. If you’re in a BIPOC, LGBTQ+ or multicultural relationship, this is even more important.

Also, think about what works best for you and your partner. Is online therapy more comfortable for your schedule? Thankfully, Los Angeles has many great therapists offering flexible virtual options.

Take your time, ask questions, and find someone who makes you both feel safe and heard. A good therapist can help you grow together and build a stronger future, no matter your relationship status.

Guiding Unmarried Couples Toward Growth – Dr. Harel Papikian

If you’re looking for someone experienced, caring, and skilled in working with unmarried couples, Dr. Harel is a top choice in Los Angeles. He offers both relationship counseling for unmarried couples and therapy for individuals, helping people build stronger emotional bonds and better communication.

Dr. Harel uses a personalized and modern approach that focuses on awareness, emotional growth, and real change. He’s helped many couples reconnect, rebuild trust, and move forward with confidence. Whether you’re working through challenges or simply looking to strengthen your relationship, his sessions offer the safe space and expert guidance you need. The online couples counseling cost typically ranges from $200 to $300 per session—an investment in lasting connection and emotional well-being.

With online options, Dr. Harel makes therapy accessible, flexible, and effective for all couples. If you’re searching for couples counseling for unmarried couples in Los Angeles, his practice is a great place to start.

Therapy Is for Every Type of Couple

“The greatest gift you can give your partner is your own emotional growth.”
— Dr. John Gottman

Being in a relationship takes real effort—whether you’re married or not. You might be dating, living together, engaged, or in a long-term commitment. No matter your status, therapy can help you feel closer, understand each other better, and handle challenges in a healthy way.

Some people believe going to therapy means something is wrong. But that’s not true. It shows you care enough to work on your relationship. It’s about growing together, talking more openly, and avoiding problems before they get too big.

That’s where relationship counseling for unmarried couples comes in. It helps you build trust, improve communication, and create strong habits early, before you face big life changes or long-term decisions. It gives your relationship a strong base to grow from.

Dr. Harel can help. He works with couples who aren’t married but want to build a better connection. His calm, supportive style makes it easier to open up, talk honestly, and move forward with confidence.

Couples counseling for unmarried couples isn’t just for fixing problems. It’s for anyone who wants to make a good relationship even stronger—and build a future that feels right for both of you.

Pro Tip: Therapy is a safe space. The more honest you are with your partner, and Dr. Harel, the more progress you’ll make. It’s okay to feel nervous—growth starts with being real.

Build a Stronger Future—Starting Now

Every relationship deserves care, growth, and support—whether you’re married or not. Unmarried couples face important decisions, emotional challenges, and life transitions just like anyone else. Getting help from Dr Harel can make your bond even stronger.

Therapy is a powerful way to deepen connection, improve communication, and move through challenges with trust and respect. With guidance and the right tools, your relationship can grow in meaningful, lasting ways. Dr. Harel helps couples build strong, healthy relationships with a supportive approach.

Book a session today and take the next step toward a stronger, more fulfilling relationship. The help you need is right here in Los Angeles.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Is couples counseling helpful even if we’re not married?

Yes, therapy is helpful for any couple who wants to grow, talk better, or solve problems. Relationship counseling for unmarried couples can make your connection stronger and prepare you both for a healthy future—whether or not you plan to get married.

 

2. What kind of issues can we talk about in therapy?

You can talk about anything that matters to you—communication, trust, life goals, sex or emotional distance. Couples counseling for unmarried couples helps you work through tough spots and understand each other better in a calm, safe space.

 

3. How soon should we start couples therapy?

It’s best to start before small issues grow bigger. Early help gives you tools to manage challenges before they become serious. Many couples find that starting therapy early leads to a stronger connection and better teamwork.

 

4. Do therapists understand different types of relationships?

Yes. Dr. Harel works with all kinds of couples, including LGBTQ+ and multicultural partners. His approach to relationship counseling for unmarried couples respects your unique story. He helps you build a relationship that fits your values and goals.

 

5. Where can we find the right therapist in Los Angeles?

Dr. Harel is a licensed clinical psychologist in LosAngeles who helps couples build strong, healthy relationships. If you’re looking for unmarried couples therapy, he offers a calm, caring space to help you feel closer and grow together.